By John Umeh
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has honoured Super Falcons defender and Ondo-born football star, Oluwatosin Demehin, with a generous gift of ₦30 million and a brand-new house in recognition of her exceptional performance at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The announcement was made during a grand reception held at the Government House in Akure, where Demehin was officially received and celebrated by the state government and enthusiastic supporters. The governor praised the 22-year-old for her courage, discipline, and brilliance on the pitch, describing her as a shining ambassador of the state and a role model to young girls across Nigeria.
“Demehin’s performance at WAFCON made Ondo State and Nigeria proud,” Governor Aiyedatiwa stated. “Her resilience and patriotic spirit reflect the very best of us. This gesture is a token of our appreciation for bringing honour and pride to our state.”
Demehin played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s campaign at the tournament, helping the Super Falcons secure a top finish and maintaining one of the best defensive records in the competition. Her consistency and tactical intelligence earned her widespread praise from fans, pundits, and football administrators alike.
In her emotional response, Demehin expressed heartfelt gratitude to the governor and the people of Ondo State for the recognition and support. “This moment means everything to me,” she said. “I’m deeply grateful to Governor Aiyedatiwa for believing in me and for making home feel like victory. This gift will motivate me to keep pushing boundaries.”
Also present at the event were top government officials, sports administrators, community leaders, and youth groups, all of whom applauded the governor’s commitment to encouraging homegrown talent.
The gesture is part of Aiyedatiwa’s broader vision to revive and promote grassroots sports development in Ondo State. He promised that the state would continue to support athletes who excel on national and international stages, adding that Demehin’s success story is proof that investment in sports yields great results.
As Demehin returns to her club and national duties, she does so with the admiration and blessings of her state — a heroine honoured at home for her brilliance abroad.
